Norvasc

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

heart problems like heart failure or aortic stenosis

liver disease

an unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take the tablets with or without food. Do not change the amount of grapefruit juice you drink from day to day while taking this drug, or avoid grapefruit juice altogether. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more medicine than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in children as young as 6.
Persons over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and need smaller doses.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is less than four hours to your next dose, take only that dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

herbal or dietary supplements

local or general anesthetics

medicines for high blood pressure

medicines for prostate problems

rifampin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact him or her.
This medicine may make you feel confused, dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Avoid alcoholic drinks; they can make you more dizzy.
Do not suddenly stop taking amlodipine. Ask your doctor or health care professional how you can gradually reduce the dose.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

changes in vision or hearing

chest pain

fast, irregular heartbeat

swelling of legs or ankles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

dry mouth

facial flushing

nausea, vomiting

stomach gas, pain

tired, weak

trouble sleeping

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.